I’m not afraid to admit that I’ve spent an ungodly amount of hours watching Chris Appleton’s how-to videos on TikTok, trying to perfect the “messy bun” updo or convince myself I need curtain bangs. After all, Appleton is the man responsible for giving celebs like Kim Kardashian, Dua Lipa, Jennifer Lopez, and Ariana Grande their most talked about looks (high ponytail, anyone?). However, Hollywood glam isn’t Appleton’s only area of expertise. Apparently, the celebrity hairstylist can also add expert gift-giver to his ever-growing resume, especially with luxury beauty-related goods. Just as generous as he is with his tips and tricks for adding volume to a half-ponytail or making your hair waterproof (yes, that’s a thing), Appleton took some time out of his schedule to help make your holiday shopping easier.
Ahead, is Appleton’s guide to luxury beauty shopping.
My holiday gifting tip is...
to make sure the gift is personal to the person you’re gifting. You can shell out as much money as you want on an expensive, glamorous gift, but something thoughtful is always the best option, in my opinion.
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For the beauty jet setter:
SkinMedica Minis Collection, $205
Chances are you’re the packer who tends to forget an essential piece of your skincare routine. Skinmedica’s skincare mini kit has your entire routine mapped out for you, down to your sunscreen. Plus, it comes with a chic brown clear bag to store any other must-haves in your beauty routine and can easily be wiped if products get a little messy.
Appleton says: “I love this set because it has everything you need for the perfect skin routine on the go. There are two face cleansers, a morning + night serum, sunscreen, and a moisturizer.”
For the budding hairstylist:
Color Wow Money Masque, $45
No matter how many different styles you bend and morph your hair into, healthy hair should be the main priority. Hair masks are a savior for damaged hair or limp, dry strands needing a pick-me-up. This super nourishing mask is infused with sea kelp and algae to increase moisture, blue sea kale to restore elasticity, and heat protection to prevent further damage.
Appleton says: “My money masque is a deeply hydrating treatment that can be used on all hair types. It leaves hair super smooth and silky- the best product for gorgeous, holiday-ready hair!”
For the scene-stealer:
Tom Ford Tobacco Vanille Eau de Parfum , $285
Anyone wearing a Tom Ford fragrance knows they’re the main character in whatever room they step into. Tobacco Vanille is one of Tom Ford’s spicier scents, anchored by a toasty blend of tonka bean, vanilla, and cocoa with a hint of ginger for added oomph.
Appleton says: “This is a super luxurious-smelling perfume that most people love the scent of, making it an amazing gift.”
My personal wishlist gift is...
luggage from Rimowa. I’m constantly traveling, so having a super high-quality, sturdy piece of luggage would be an ideal gift.
SkinMedica Minis Collection
TOM FORD Private Blend Tobacco Vanille Eau de Parfum
Rimowa Cabin
Nerisha is the beauty commerce editor at ELLE.com, covering all things beauty (and fashion and music). She has a penchant for sneakers and nude lip glosses, and spends way too much time re-watching 90s sitcoms.
